Fourth Graders as Models for Teachers: Teaching and Learning 6+1 Trait Writing as a Collaborative Experience
Abstract
Performance on standardized writing assessments indicates that less than one-third of American K‐12 students are proficient in writing. Despite this statistic, the current emphasis on reading in elementary schools means preservice elementary teachers may observe little writing instruction during field experiences. This article presents the results of a semester-long collaborative writing exchange designed in response to these problems. Qualitative methods were used to determine how 22 elementary students' writing improved as a result of helping a cohort of five student teachers learn to use the 6+1 Trait® Writing Model for Improving Student Writing. The findings have implications for classroom teachers, teacher educators, and teacher preparation programs.
Reference
Fry, S. W., & Griffin, S. (2010). Fourth graders as models for teachers: teaching and learning 6+ 1 trait writing as a collaborative experience. Literacy Research and Instruction, 49(4), 283-298.
Journal
Literacy Research and Instruction
Analysis
Is this article part of a larger project or series of studies?
no
Does this study draw on a large, preexisting data set?
no
Research Approach
Geographic Setting
- Mid-Atlantic US
- Rocky Mountain Region, USA
Institutional Context
Certification Level
Programatic Focus
Research Location Context
- Elementary school
- University
Preservice Participants
- Undergraduates (university based program)
Preservice Sample Size
5
Other Participant Data
Duration of Data Collection
Data Sources
- anecdotal notes about elementary students' feedback
- Audio recordings
- elementary students' writing and revisions with PTs' comments
- Informal Assessments (e.g. performance assessments)
- Reflective journals
Data Analysis Tools
- open coding and examined for emergent themes
Researcher Positionality
- inside (staying their own students)
- Inside (studying their own programs)
Research Questions
"How/do student teachers learn and apply the 6-Traits during their internship?"
Is this research question explicit from the manuscript? Yes
"How does teaching adults about the 6-Traits influence fourth graders’ writing?"
Is this research question explicit from the manuscript? Unknown